Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Disclaimer Statement Guidance

E-mail disclaimer statements are usually of a legal character and advise recipients of electronic correspondence regarding the necessity to maintain confidentiality. They can also be added to disclaim liability.

Typically, an e-mail disclaimer statement should: a) set forth what federal statutes or departmental regulations may apply; b) include a statement regarding the sensitivity of the information being transmitted and the need to protect it; and, c) if the correspondence contains protected health information (PHI) or other healthcare information, it is recommended to include a warning or prohibition against unauthorized duplication and/or unauthorized re-disclosure.

For further guidance on developing and implementing an e-mail disclaimer statement, please contact your local privacy office.